By: Tiana Cole | HGP Nightly News |
Opposition Member of Parliament Ganesh Mahipaul has submitted a motion to the Clerk of the National Assembly proposing that motorists be allowed to purchase multi-year motor vehicle licences, instead of renewing them annually.
Mahipaul said the initiative is aimed at modernizing the vehicle licensing system and reducing the administrative burden on both motorists and the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA).
He explained this via a social media post, stating that, under the existing Motor Vehicles and Road Traffic Act, Cap. 51:02, vehicle licences are issued for one year only, requiring drivers to renew in person annually. His motion seeks to introduce flexibility, allowing vehicle owners the option to purchase licences valid for one to five years.
Mahipaul argued that the current renewal system creates long lines, inefficiency, and congestion at licensing offices. The proposed change, he said, would streamline operations, making the process more customer-friendly and efficient.
Lambert: “Consult Stakeholders and Address Road Lawlessness”
However, Chairman of the Guyana National Road Safety Council, Earl Lambert, in a telephone interview with HGP Nightly News, cautioned that while Mahipaul’s proposal has merit, stakeholder consultations are essential before such a change is implemented.
“I would have preferred that you speak with stakeholders, and if there are any laws to be reviewed, you do a comprehensive package,” Lambert advised.
Lambert expressed concern that the country is facing growing lawlessness on the roads, and suggested that Parliament should treat this as an urgent national issue.
“I’m talking about the serious nature of what is happening now with the lawlessness on the road. I’m not saying that I don’t support what he’s saying there, but I don’t think you can address anything in a peaceful manner unless that’s dealt with,” he said.
Technology and Enforcement
Lambert also emphasized the need for greater use of innovative enforcement tools, such as speed cameras, to ensure that traffic laws are applied fairly and consistently.
“How do you address the lawlessness on the road? The only way is by making sure the law works for everybody and not just some,” Lambert stated.
While the motion awaits parliamentary consideration, both Mahipaul and Lambert agree that Guyana’s traffic system must evolve — balancing efficiency and modernisation with strict enforcement and safety on the nation’s roadways.
